With an average annual temperature of 21.8 °C | 71.3 °F, we’d be hard-pressed to find a better place to enjoy the year-round Florida sun than right here in the beautiful Crystal River area. Where unique adventures await and provide many opportunities to discover the heart and soul of authentic Florida.
Crystal River, the “Manatee Capital of the World,” is home to hundreds of manatees who annually gather here to bask in the warm spring-fed waters of Kings Bay and Three Sisters Springs. In fact, it is one of the only places in the world where you can swim with these gentle creatures. Ready to experience it for yourself? Find some of our favorite ways to have fun in the sun below!
Swim with Manatees!
Spring is here and that means one thing. Manatee season is currently in full swing! But don’t wait. As water temperatures begin to rise in the Gulf of Mexico towards the beginning of April, manatees begin to make their way back to open water. Needless to say, there’s no better time to let a trained guide take you on an up-close-and-personal swim with a manatee. It’s an adventure you won’t soon forget, as each manatee has its own unique personality. Please practice passive observation while in or on the water to keep the manatee population safe and come back to the springs for future generations to enjoy.
Kayak the Day Away
There’s no better way to experience the seemingly never-ending system of seven rivers, crystal-clear springs, open bays, and freshwater lakes than by floating through them in a kayak. Once you put in, your adventure is your own, and with plenty of wildlife to keep you company, there’s no telling what stories you may come home with. Whether you’re starting in Kings Bay Park or Pete’s Pier, the waters ahead are yours to explore.
Paddle Untouched Florida
Paddle through beautiful, crystal clear springs, down the still wild Chassahowitzka River, into open bays, and around freshwater lakes in Florida’s paddling paradise. Stand-up paddle boards and sit-in kayaks are both available for this incredible, on-the-water experience.
Cast A Line
Reel in your next trophy fish with any of our professional fishing guides in Crystal River, Homosassa, Inverness, and Floral City. Our world-class fishing destination offers a true taste of adventure with opportunities to hook a variety of fish, from largemouth bass to cobia or tarpon. Choose to fish offshore or inshore, in freshwater or salt. Get ready to dive into a real fishing adventure in Citrus County.
Festivals, Fun & More
Join in on the fun at some of Citrus County’s exciting festivals. No matter what might tickle your fancy, we’ve got something sure to pique everyone’s interest. From Shrimpaplooza to Floral City Strawberry Festival, there’s always just enough to do.
Ride the Trails
Discover miles of scenic trails to explore on two wheels, from rugged mountain bike paths through the Withlacoochee State Forest to the paved 46-mile Withlacoochee State Trail, one of Florida’s longest-paved rail trails. Enjoy a picturesque ride through forests, past lakes, and quaint downtowns.
Fish-to-Fork Cuisine
Feast your way through our burgeoning food scene with fresh-off-the-boat seafood daily and a super-tasty seasonal stone crab. Or fish for your dinner, then have one of our talented chefs cook your catch. Dig into our delicious dining options that change with the seasons and are sure to please every palette.
Get into the Wild
In addition to 600 acres of natural springs, there is more to explore on Florida’s Nature Coast. Discover two National Wildlife Refuges, the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, and the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge, along with numerous parks and preserves where you can discover native plants and wildlife.
Discover Roots
Explore the cultural and historical attractions that tell our story, from art galleries to archaeological sites and even a courthouse-turned-museum where Elvis Presley filmed scenes for the musical classic, Follow That Dream.
Birding Paradise
Birding in Citrus County can include anything from a flock of whooping cranes to a soaring eagle to nesting sandhill cranes. Many of Citrus County’s public parks and preserves have huge avian populations. The Great Florida Birding Trail has 445 official sites, and 23 of them are in Citrus County. Spring is the perfect time to enjoy the winged kingdom.
Explore Cities
The quaint untouched Old Florida towns of Crystal River, Homosassa, Inverness, and Floral City each offer authentic experiences and incredible opportunities to enjoy great dining, rich history, and plenty more.
Virtual Inspiration
Take a sneak peek at just some of our cities, top attractions, and authentic adventures you’ll find in the soul of Florida. Get inspired by these exciting videos, then plan your visit to see them for yourself. Spring into fun!
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